Sussex Wildlife Trust volunteers have been working tirelessly over the past few weeks at Eridge Rocks nature reserve near Crowborough, a majestic sandstone rock outcrop set in mixed woodland.
Thanks to a £2,500 grant from South East Water’s Community Chest Fund, overgrown dark pathways have been opened up by cutting back hazel and chestnut coppice and bramble to allow sunlight to reach the woodland floor allowing spring flowers such as bluebells, primroses and violets to re-establish and thrive.
Alice Parfitt, Reserves Manager said, ‘As well as providing an attractive spectacle for walkers, plants will also attract silver-washed fritillary and white admiral butterflies. Bumblebees and hoverflies will also benefit from the extra supply of pollen and nectar so there will be more wildlife for everyone to enjoy.’
For two weeks volunteers were joined by specialist contractors who have removed some of the overcrowded trees preventing sunlight reaching the forest floor. Some of the cut wood has been left on site as log piles for insects to breed and overwinter in.
Emma Goddard, Environmental Manager, South East Water, said: ‘We are delighted to support Sussex Wildlife Trust with such an interesting and worthwhile project. The hard work of the volunteers and the contractors will have a positive impact on the local environment.’
For further information on Eridge Rocks nature reserve please visit: www.sussexwildlifetrust.org.uk/visit/eridge-rocks
